Vinyl Decking Vs. Composite Decking – Is the Price Worth the Cost?

Vinyl decking has long been a reliable, low maintenance solution for waterproofing decks and outdoor living space. However, in the last few years, there has been quite a buzz about composite decking, or wood plastic composite decking. This is the new kid on the block for low maintenance decking options. When considering composite decking, one must also consider the cost involved, as it can vary significantly compared to other materials. Information and images are showing up from sources like the article, “Some Issues with Composite Decking” from home inspector, Jason Horn. This raises more questions, and possibly some doubt, about composite decking.

If you are comparing options for building or renovating a deck, doing a little homework will save you a lot in the long run. This ensures you get the most value for your investment. Understanding the cost of composite decking could help you make informed decisions. (Compare for yourself and request a quote today).

The Price of Composite versus Vinyl Decking

While actual costs will vary greatly from project to project, composite decking has shown costs of 2 to 5 times more than decks built from pressure-treated wood. It is nearly twice as much as a deck protected with PVC Vinyl. The cost composite decking incurs is not just from material; a lot of it is attributed to labor. The composite decking boards have less strength than regular wood and tend to sag or bow. Therefore, the supporting joists must be placed closer together. Additionally, each board must be pre-drilled prior to installation during the fastening process.

While waterproofing your deck with a vinyl membrane will contribute to the overall cost of the material for your decking project. However, the installation is handled by expertly trained installers, and the vinyl can be installed and walked on within the same day. Additionally, the primary substrate of the deck is still a solid wood foundation. When protected by Duradek vinyl, it can last for decades.

The Performance of Your Deck

Like many other decking materials, composite decking boards need room to expand and contract. Unfortunately, there have been many instances of composite boards cracking and splitting along the edges. There have been some occurrences of deterioration along the primary surface of the boards. Research the composite decking cost and some of the unwelcome results by simply doing a Google search on ‘failed composite decking’. Some composite decking manufacturers have tried to resolve this issue by ‘capping’ the boards with a protective coating. However, some of these composite deck boards are showing swelling at the ends where there is nothing to keep moisture from getting into the wood fibers.

But beyond the deck surface, it is the deterioration of the wood joists underneath the composite that must be considered. The drying qualities of composite decking on the surface come at a cost to the actual structure of the deck. While wood decking will absorb some moisture and eventually release it to the air around it, composite decking does not absorb water. Any moisture that gets trapped underneath the composite decking and on top of the wood joists would tend to stay there. This traps moisture, preventing the joists from drying properly and makes them more susceptible to rot and decay. For some interesting comments and images, check out “Lots of Noise About Composite Decks” on the Business of Building Decks and Fences blog.

Duradek vinyl membranes virtually eliminate the issue of wood rot. The vinyl completely seals the deck with a water-tight surface and provides roofing grade protection for the structure underneath. Water is not absorbed by the deck, but drains with a natural slope. Water routers and diverters keep the structure protected.

If you are interested in discussing decking costs, including those associated with composite decking, with a Duradek professional installer. You can find a Duradek dealer near you for a personal consultation on your decking project.